Page:The Yellow Book - 01.djvu/246

226 &quot;What? down there?&quot; jerking her thumb over her shoulder.

&quot;Yes, of course—at once,&quot; answered the girl, impatiently. &quot;And if they catches me—a nice fool I looks. No, I'm jest blowed if I do!&quot; she concluded. &quot;Whatever's up?&quot;

&quot;You must,&quot; the girl broke out excitedly. &quot;I tell you, you must.&quot;

&quot;Must—must—an' if I do, what am I goin' to git out of it?&quot; She paused, reflecting; then added: &quot;Look 'ere—I tell yer what—I'll do it for half a quid, there?&quot;

&quot; Yes—yes—all right—only make haste.&quot;

&quot;An' 'ow d' I know as I'll git it?&quot; she objected doggedly. &quot;It's a jolly risk, yer know.&quot; The girl sprang up, flushed and feverish.

&quot;Quick—or he'll be gone. I don't know where it is—but you shall have it—I promise—quick please go—quick.&quot;

The other hesitated, her lips pressed together; turned, and went out.

And the girl, catching at her breath, clutched a chair.

A flame flickered up in the fire, buzzing spasmodically. A creak outside. She had come up. But the curtains did not move. Why didn't she come in? She was going past. The girl hastened across the room, the intensity of the impulse lending her strength.

&quot;Come—come in,&quot; she gasped. "Quick—I'm slipping.&quot;

She struck at the wall; but with the flat of her hand, for there was no grip. The woman bursting in, caught her, and led her back to the sofa.

&quot;There, there, dearie,&quot; tucking the cloak round her feet. &quot;Lift up the piller, my 'ands are that mucky. Will yer 'ave anythin'?&quot; She